The U.S. Attorney’s Office has reportedly launched a federal investigation into allegations against Detroit Pistons guard Malik Beasley regarding gambling tied to NBA games and player proposition bets. The probe, which ESPN reported on Sunday, has raised concerns about the potential consequences for the veteran player.
Malik Beasley’s attorney, Steve Haney, has clarified that while an investigation is underway, no charges have been filed. "An investigation is not a charge," Haney told ESPN. "Malik is afforded the same right of the presumption of innocence as anyone else under the U.S. Constitution. As of now, he has not been charged with anything."
While the exact nature of the allegations remains undisclosed, Beasley’s legal team has indicated full cooperation with the federal authorities. The NBA has also expressed willingness to cooperate with the probe. "We are cooperating with the federal prosecutors’ investigation," an NBA spokesman told Fox News Digital.
The Pistons have acknowledged the ongoing investigation but have deferred further comment to the NBA. Despite the probe, Beasley played all 82 games for the Pistons last season, starting 18 of them. He averaged 16.3 points and 2.6 rebounds per game. It was his first season with the team, and ESPN reported that the NBA and the Pistons had halted contract extension negotiations as the investigation was revealed.
Beasley has spent nine seasons in the NBA, playing for teams such as the Denver Nuggets, Minnesota Timberwolves, Utah Jazz, Los Angeles Lakers, and Milwaukee Bucks. The NBA has previously penalized players for violating its gambling policies, most notably former Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter, who was banned last year after pleading guilty to charges tied to a gambling scheme.
The situation highlights the league’s strict stance on gambling-related violations, which could lead to significant consequences for players involved. The ongoing probe into Beasley’s activities may have implications for his career and future with the Pistons, depending on the outcome. As the investigation unfolds, fans and NBA officials will be watching closely to see how this develops.